His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI has written to the Co-Founders of Autism Sunday, British campaigners Ivan and Charika Corea invoking God's blessings, strength and peace on the Autism Community. He has also stated that he appreciates the concerns over autism.

Autism Sunday - also known as the International Day of Prayer for Autism and Asperger's Syndrome takes place on Sunday 8th February 2009. Cathedrals, Churches and religious organisations will remember over 60 million people with autism and Asperger's Syndrome around the world and over 500,000 people with autism in the UK in prayer.

Ministers, parliamentarians and dignitaries are to attend a Service for Autism to mark Autism Sunday at one of the largest churches on the east side of London at All Saint's Church, Inman's Row, Woodford Wells.

Ivan Corea, co-Founder of Autism Sunday said: 'We are delighted that His Holiness the Pope will be remembering parents, carers, children and adults with autism and Asperger's Syndrome in his prayers on Autism Sunday. We are urging World Leaders including President Barack Obama to speak up for Autism on Autism Sunday.'